Cheese-Crusted Fries

Introduction

Cheese-Crusted Fries are the ultimate snack for cheese lovers — crispy, golden fries layered with melted cheese that forms a crunchy, caramelized crust. They’re salty, cheesy, and full of flavor — perfect for movie nights, parties, or as a side with burgers or sandwiches. The secret? Melting the cheese right onto the fries so it crisps beautifully on the edges while staying gooey inside.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 3–4

Ingredients

For the Fries:

3 large russet potatoes (or frozen fries for convenience)

2 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Crust:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and Monterey Jack)

1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)

Optional Toppings:

Chopped parsley or green onions

Crumbled bacon

Ranch dressing or chipotle mayo for dipping

Instructions

Prepare the Fries (10 minutes)

Wash and peel the potatoes (if using fresh).

Cut into even sticks, about ¼-inch thick.

Soak in cold water for 30 minutes (optional, for crispier fries), then pat completely dry.

Season and Cook the Fries (20–25 minutes)

Option 1 – Oven:

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Toss fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.

Option 2 – Air Fryer:

Preheat to 400°F (200°C).

Air fry in batches for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Option 3 – Deep Fryer:

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

Fry in small batches for 4–5 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.

Add the Cheese Crust (5–7 minutes)

Once fries are crisp, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over them (in the pan or air fryer basket).

Bake or air fry again for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns slightly golden brown.

Let sit for 1–2 minutes so the cheese crust can firm slightly.

(For a skillet version:)

Melt 1 tbsp butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Sprinkle cheese directly into the pan in a thin layer.

Let it melt and form a crust, then place fries on top. Press lightly.

After 1–2 minutes, flip or lift out the fries with the crisp cheese crust attached.

Serve (2 minutes)

Transfer fries to a plate, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheesy flavor or mozzarella for extra gooeyness.

For spice, sprinkle chili flakes or jalapeños before melting the cheese.

Add crisp bacon bits for a loaded fries version.

Make sure fries are hot when adding cheese — it melts and adheres better.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side with burgers, fried chicken, or sandwiches.
Great with dips like ranch, spicy mayo, cheese sauce, or garlic aioli.

Final Thoughts

Cheese-Crusted Fries are crispy, melty, and downright addictive — a comfort snack that takes ordinary fries to the next level. Whether baked, air-fried, or skillet-cooked, that cheesy crust adds a satisfying crunch and flavor explosion in every bite.